A nurse is caring for a client taking cholestyramine (Questran). The client is complaining of constipation. What will the nurse do?

• A. Call the health care provider to change the medication.
• B. Tell the client to skip a dose of the medication.
• C. Have the client increase fluids and fiber in his diet.
• D. Administer an enema to the client.

Answer: (C)

Constipation is a common side effect of cholestyramine, a bile acid sequestrant. The best way to relieve this symptom is to increase fluids and dietary fiber. More fiber adds bulk to the stool and, with adequate fluids, helps soften and move it through the intestines, easing defecation. This approach addresses the symptom without interrupting the lipid-lowering therapy.

Skipping a dose or changing the medication isn’t the right move for this issue, and giving an enema is unnecessary for simple drug-induced constipation. If constipation persists despite adequate fluids and fiber, the provider should be consulted to reassess therapy or consider additional options under medical guidance.